Speaking in response to an announcement by the Isle of Wight Council, Bob Seely MP said:

“I am really delighted the Government has shown faith in secondary education in Sandown. It’s clearly the right decision and testament to the powerful case made by all of us working together.

“I would like thank Sandown parents and the wider community for giving the school such strong support in recent consultations. It certainly made our job of convincing the Government easier. I would also specifically like to thank education officer Brian Pope, as well as Cllrs Chris Whitehouse, Paul Brading and Dave Stewart for their hard work and leadership. I am also grateful that AET is cooperating.

“This is not the end of the matter. We now need to ensure that Government accepts our advice as to the right structures for the school, and that we give parents, pupils and teachers the support they need to ensure the school thrives."